Maryam - Apr-Jun 2017 (English) by waqfenauintl

From the Editor... T

he blessed month of Ramadan has just passed, in this month we

strive to focus our attention on prayers and trying to improve ourselves. We are fortunate to have the guidance of our beloved Khalifatul Masih, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba. In one of his Friday Sermons during this Ramadan Hazuraba stated: “Ramadan has been prescribed so that you can increase in the good deeds that you are already acting upon. Every Ramadan that concludes, should have elevated us to new levels of worship and righteous deeds. Then we should become those who establish new and high standards of worship and righteous deeds… Allah the Almighty has drawn our attention towards prayer through various references and has not restricted this to the month of Ramadan only. Regarding the prayers, Friday Prayers and Ramadan, the Holy Prophetsaw has given an instruction which a believer and one who has the fear of Allah the Almighty in the heart should always bear in mind. The Holy Prophetsaw stated: ‘The five daily prayers, from one Friday prayer to the next Friday prayer and one Ramadan to the next Ramadan are an expiation for the sins committed between them, so long as one refrains from committing any major sins.’” (Friday Sermon 23rd June 2017) As Waqfe Nau it is incumbent for us to follow Hazur’saba guidance and to strive to improve our prayers throughout the year and to continuously selfassess and improve our morals and deeds every day of our lives in order to attain nearness to Allah the Almighty. In this tumultuous time, obedience to the Divinely-guided Khalifah is the only means of spiritual and worldly success. May Allah the Almighty enable us elevate our standard of prayer and enable us all to hold tight to the rope of Khilafat. Ameen.

edi Hina Ahm

ENGLISH EDITOR Hina Ahmedi

URDU EDITOR

Sabah Un Noor Tahir EDITORIAL BOARD Hibba-Tul Mussawir Maleeha Mansur Meliha Hayat

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Zanubia Ahmad ASSISTANT MANAGER Dure Jamal Mala COVER DESIGN Atiyya Wasee

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CONTENTS APRIL - JUNE 2017 | ISSUE 22

Divine Commandments

Hadith from Waqfe Nau Syllabus

Hadith

Personal Reflections with Khilafat

Writings of the Promised Messiah as

The Media Virus Against Islam

The Life and Character of the Seal of the Prophets saw

Lajna Imaillah UK hosts first Press & Media workshop

Hazrat Amman Jaan ra A great Hostess

Focus: A Hidden Truth

Motherhood and My Experience

European Court of Justice ruling on Hijab

Zanubia Ahmed

Madiha Malik

Tarbiyyat Page

Kids Spread

Navida Sayed

Manaal Rehman

Maleeha Mansur

33 36

The Importance of Attending Jalsa Salana UK Nosheen Samreen Mullick

Poem: Our Khalifa Sajia Majeed

DivineCommandments ��

ONENES S O F A LLA H

َ ُ ‫ﱠ‬ ‫ََ َ ْ ُ َ َ ﱣ ٰ ٰ َ َ ٓ ٰ ﱠ‬ َ ُ َ ْ ْ َ ‫ا� ِاﻟ� ً��ﺎ اﺧ َﺮ ۘ ﻻ ِاﻟ َﮫ ِاﻻ ُ� َﻮ � � ﱡﻞ �� ْ� ٍء َ� ِﺎﻟ ٌﻚ ِاﻻ َو ْﺟ َ� ٗﮫ ۭ ﻟ ُﮫ ا� ُ�ﻜ ُﻢ َو ِاﻟ ْﻴ ِﮫ ﺗ ْﺮ َﺟ ُﻌ ْﻮ ان ۝‬ ِ ‫وﻻ ﺗﺪع ﻣﻊ‬ And call not on any other God beside Allah. There is no God but He. Everything will perish ‫۝‬ except Himself. His is the judgment and to Him will you be brought back. (Al-Qasas: 89)

A LLA H D O E S N O T LET A NYO NE S HA R E HI S GO V ER NM ENT

َ ٓ ْ َ ْ َ ‫َﻣﺎ ﻟ ُ� ْﻢ ِّﻣ ْﻦ ُد ْو ِﻧ ٖﮫ ِﻣ ْﻦ ﱠو ِ� ّ ٍ� ﱠوﻻ ُ�ﺸ ِﺮ ُك ِ� ْ� ُﺣﻜ ِﻤ ٖﮫ ا َﺣ ًﺪا ۝‬

��

They have no helper beside Him and, He does not let anyone share in His government. (Al-Kahaf: 27)

IS P LE A S U RE ��D� ��

A N D TUR NI NG A S I DE F R O M I DO LATER S

َ ْ ُْ ْ ‫َو َا ْﻋﺮ‬ ‫ض َﻋ ِﻦ اﳌﺸ ِﺮ ِﻛ ْ�ن۝‬ ِ

And from �� turn ��aside �� idolaters. �� (Al-Ina’m: 107)

PR O HIB ITIO N O F RE TUR N I N TO S HI R K AF TER THE S ALVATION

�� َ ْ َ َ ُ ْ َ ََ ّ ُ َ َ ْ ْ ُ َ‫ُْْ َ َ ُ ﱣ‬ ُْ َ َ َ ‫اﻟﺪ ْﻳ َﻦ ﻓﻠ ﱠﻤﺎ ﻧ ﱣﺠ ُ�� ْﻢ ِا�� اﻟ َ� ّ ِ� ِاذا ُ� ْﻢ ُ�ﺸ ِﺮﻛ ْﻮن۝‬ ِ ‫ﻓ ِﺎذا ر ِﻛﺒﻮا ِ�� اﻟﻔﻠ ِﻚ دﻋﻮا ا� ﻣﺨ ِﻠ ِﺼ�ن ﻟﮫ‬

( 66: ‫)اﻟﻌﻨﮑﺒﻮت‬

And when they go on board a ship, they call on Allah, with sincere and exclusive faith in Him. But when He brings them safe to land, behold, they associate partners with Him; (Al-Ankaboot: 66)

A LLA H HA S NO PARTNER I N HI S K I NGDO M

�� َ ُْ ْ َ ‫َُ ْ َُْ ﱣ ﱠ‬ ‫ﱠ‬ َ ُ ‫ﱡ‬ َ ‫ْ َ َ ُ ﱠ‬ ‫� اﻟ ِﺬ ْي ﻟ ْﻢ َﻳ ﱠﺘ ِﺨﺬ َوﻟ ًﺪا ﱠوﻟ ْﻢ َﻳﻜ ْﻦ ﻟ ٗﮫ ﺷ ِﺮْ� ٌﻚ ِ�� ا�ﻠ ِﻚ َوﻟ ْﻢ َﻳﻜ ْﻦ ﻟ ٗﮫ َو ِ� ﱞ� ِّﻣ َﻦ اﻟﺬ ِ ّل َوﻛ ِّ� ْ� ُﻩ‬ ِ ِ ‫وﻗ ِﻞ ا��ﻤﺪ‬ َْ ( 112: ‫)�� ا�ﺮا��ﻞ‬ ‫ﺗﻜ ِﺒ ْ� ً�ا۝‬

And say, ‘all praise belongs to Allah Who has taken unto Himself no son, and Who has no partner in His Kingdom, nor has He anyone to help Him on account of weakness.’ And extol His glory with all glorification. (Bani Israeel:112)

(English Translation of the Holy Qur’an by Hazrat Maulvi Sher Ali Sahibra)

HADITH

saw

A Saying of The Holy Prophet (May Peace and Blessings of Allah Ta’ala be Upon Him)

Allah Sees Hearts ِ‫ﻮل ﱠ‬ ‫ إِ ﱠن ﱠ‬:‫ا�ُ َﻋﻠَْﻴ ِﻪ َو َﺳﻠﱠ َﻢ‬ ‫ﺻﻠﱠ� ﱠ‬ ‫ا�َ َﻻ ﻳَـ ْﻨﻈُُﺮ إِ َﱃ‬ ُ ‫ﺎل َر ُﺳ‬ َ َ‫ ﻗ‬:‫ﺎل‬ َ َ‫َﻋ ْﻦ أَِﰊ ُﻫ َﺮﻳْـ َﺮَة ﻗ‬ َ �‫ا‬ .‫ﺻ َﻮِرُﻛ ْﻢ َوأ َْﻣ َﻮاﻟِ ُﻜ ْﻢ َوﻟَ ِﻜ ْﻦ ﻳَـ ْﻨﻈُُﺮ إِ َﱃ ﻗُـﻠُﻮﺑِ ُﻜ ْﻢ َوأَ ْﻋ َﻤﺎﻟِ ُﻜ ْﻢ‬ ُ

(‫ ﻛﺘﺎب اﻟﱪ واﻟﺼﻠﺔ واﻵداب‬،‫)ﻣﺴﻠﻢ‬

TRANSLATION: Narrated by Ḥaḍrat Abū Hurairah, Allāh be pleased with him: Said the Prophet of Allāh (peace be on him and blessings of Allāh): “Allāh does not see towards your shapes and your wealth but He sees towards your hearts and your actions.” (Abū Dāwūd, English translation is taken from the book ‘‘Forty Gems of Beauty’’ by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p.41)

EXPLANATORY NOTES: In this Ḥadīth, the Holy Prophet (peace be on him and blessings of Allāh) has mentioned two things which, in spite of being gifts of God, can and [do] become, at times, causes of big trial for both men and women. Of these, one is physical beauty and comeliness which becomes, generally for women, a source of great trouble. The second is wealth and affluence which generally put men to a lot of test and temptation. Citing both these as examples, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allāh be on him) said that while, without a doubt, they were great gifts of God, but Muslims should take note that Allāh does not judge the worth of people by His appraisal of the beauty of women or of wealth of men but that He sees towards their heads and hearts which are the source and repositories for human thoughts and feelings and then He sees towards their deeds which are the products of their thoughts and feelings.The word qalb used in this Ḥadīth stands both for heart and mind: for, qalb literally means the central point of an organism and the heart and the mind are both, in their respective spheres, centers of the bodily organism; the mind being the center of overt feelings and the heart that of spiritual experience. By using the words qulūb (hearts) and a‘māl (deeds), the Holy Prophet (peace of Allāh be on him and His blessings) in this context, has pointed out that, though physical beauty and material wealth are gifts of God and one should value them, but what God takes note of is the heart (qalb) of men and their (a‘māl) actions. It is therefore the duty of every Muslim to seek to improve his mind, heart and actions, instead of taking pride in the gifts of physical beauty and property and worldly goods. It must be borne well in mind that the Holy Prophet’s (peace of Allāh be on him and His blessings) admonition that God, the Excellent, watches the heart and deeds of man, means not only that these things will weigh him, on the Day of Requital but in this world too, real weight is given to feelings of the heart and the motives of the mind and the actions of limbs. The truth is that, once a people are granted the favor that the heads and hearts and limbs of its members start operating in the right direction, no power can hinder the courses of its progress nor deprive it of realization of the highest of values.

Maryam

(From the book “Forty Gems of Beauty” by Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra, p.41-43)

WRITINGS OF THE PROMISED MESSIAHAS

Allah the Exalted Extracts taken from the Writings of the Promised Messiahas, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian

“The God Who has manifested Himself to all the Prophets, and appeared to Moses on Mount Sinai and appeared to Jesus on Mount Seir and shone forth to Hadrat Muhammad, the chosen one [peace and blessings of Allah be on him] on Mount Paran, the same Mighty and Holy God has manifested Himself to me. He has talked to me and has said: I am the High Being to establish Whose worship all the Prophets were sent. I alone am the Creator and the Master and have no associate. I am not subject to birth or death.”

“It needs no argument that the true and perfect God, to believe in Whom is the duty of every creature, is the Lord of the worlds. His Providence is not confined to a particular people, age or country. He is the Sustainer of all peoples, of all ages, of all places and of all countries. He is the fountainhead of all grace. Every physical and spiritual power is bestowed by Him, and the whole universe is sustained by Him and He is the support of all.” [The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 54, Paigham-eSulah, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 23, p. 442]

[The Essence Of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 37, Government Angrezi aur Jihad, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 17, p. 29]

“The God of Islam is the same God Who is visible in the mirror of the law of nature and is discernible in the book of nature. Islam has not presented a new God but has presented the same God Who is presented by the light of man’s heart, by the conscience of man, and by heaven and earth.” [The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 39, Majmu‘a Ishtiharat, Vol. II, pp. 310-311]

“The basic attribute of God Almighty is Love and Mercy and that is the mother of all attributes. It is the same attribute which sometimes comes into operation in the shape of the attributes of Glory and Wrath for the purpose of human reform, and when the reform has been effected then Love appears in its true form and remains in operation forever as a bounty. God is not like a short-tempered person who loves to torment. He wrongs no one, but people wrong themselves. All salvation lies in His Love and all torment is to draw away from Him.”

“The Holy Qur’an comprises teachings which work towards endearing God. They exhibit His beauties and remind us of His beneficence, inasmuch as love is created either by the observation of beauty or by the remembrance of beneficence. The Qur’an teaches that by virtue of His excellences God is One, without associate. He suffers from no defect. He comprehends all good qualities and manifests all holy powers. He is the Originator of all creation and is the fountainhead of all grace. He is the Master of all recompense and everything returns to Him.”

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 60-61, Chashma-e-

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 43, Lecture Lahore,

[The Essence of Islam, Volume 2, Pg. 365, Brahin-e-

Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 20, pp. 152]

Ahmadiyya, Part V, Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 21, pp. 18-19]

Masihi, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 20, pp. 370]

“Our God possesses many wonders, but they are visible only to those who become His out of sincerity and loyalty. He does not disclose His wonders to those who do not believe in His Power and who are not sincere and loyal to Him. How unfortunate is the man who does not know that he has a God Who has power to do all that He wills.” [The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 98-99, Kashti Nuh, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 19, p. 21]

Maryam

“God’s Divinity and Godhead is related to His

The Unity of God is a light which illumines the heart

unlimited power and countless mysteries which

after the so-called outer and inner deities are totally

man cannot confine within the limits of law. For the recognition of God, it is an important and fundamental principle that the Powers and Wisdom of God the Glorious are unlimited. By understanding this principle and reflecting deeply upon it everything becomes clear and one is able to see the straight path of the recognition of Truth and the worship of Truth.” [The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 101, Surmah Chashm

negated, and it courses through every particle of man’s being. It cannot be acquired by anyone on his own, but only through God and His Messenger. Man’s function is that he should impose a death upon his ego and should discard the satanic vanity that he is a learned person. He should deem himself ignorant and should be occupied with supplication. Then the light of Unity would descend upon him from God and would bestow new life upon him.

Arya, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 2, pp. 90]

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 168, Haqiqat-ulWahi, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 22, p. 148]

“It should be borne in mind that the basic attribute of God is mercy, and the notion of justice comes into operation after reason and law are established. That also is in a way a mercy. When reason is bestowed upon a person and, through his reason, he becomes aware of the limits set by God Almighty and His laws, he becomes subject to the operation of justice, but reason and law are not a condition for the operation of mercy. As God Almighty out of His mercy desired to exalt man above the rest of His creation, He prescribed the limits and rules of justice between them. It is a folly to imagine a contradiction between justice and mercy.”

In these days, the Unity and Existence of God are subject to powerful attacks. The Christians have tried hard and have written a good deal on the subject, but whatever they have said or written, is about the God of Islam and not about a dead, crucified and helpless god. We affirm it confidently that whoever begins to write on the Existence and Being of God Almighty, would in the end have to revert to the God that is presented by Islam, because every leaf of the book of nature points to Him and naturally every man carries His impress within himself.

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 130-131, Kitab-ul-

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 170, Malfuzat, Vol.

Bariyyah, Ruhani Khaza’in, Vol. 13, pp. 73-74]

I, p. 83]

It is characteristic of God Almighty alone to know the hidden by virtue of His personal power and His personal condition. From ancient times, those who based themselves upon truth have believed that it is proper for God Almighty that He should know the hidden. This is a personal speciality of His. He has no associate in this attribute as He has no associate in His other attributes. [The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 136, Tasdiq-un-

Devotion: (Urdu Poem) “What was ours Is now wholly of the Beloved. As of today, we belong to the Beloved; And the Beloved belongs to us. God be thanked, I have found That matchless gem; It matters not if the heart Of the people has turned to stone?”

Nabi, pp. 26-27 or Maktubat-e-Ahmadiyya, Vol. 3, p.57]

[The Essence of Islam, Volume I, Pg. 183, Izala-e-Auham, Ruhani Khaza’in Vol. 3, p. 458]

Maryam

The Life and Character of the Seal of Prophets Extracts taken from the book ‘The Life & Character of the Seal of ProphetsPeace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him “Sirat Khātamun-Nabiyyīn” By Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra M.A | Translated by Ayyaz Mahmood Khan

Arrival at Madinah and the First Friday Prayer The Holy Prophetsaw was perhaps still in Qubā’ when the Muslims of Madīnah began to discuss whose home the Holy Prophetsaw would stay at. Every family desired the honour of hosting the Holy Prophetsaw. When the Holy Prophetsaw heard of this disagreement, he said, “I will stay with the maternal relations of ‘Abdul Muṭṭalib, the Banū Najjār.1” This was a very wise decision of the Holy Prophetsaw, whereby the possibility of unbecoming emotions of enmity arising amongst the various tribes was prevented. Everyone was satisfied with this decision of the Holy Prophetsaw. Although everyone was equivalent in faith and sincerity, the Banū Najjār definitely possessed the additional distinction that Salamah, the mother of ‘Abdul-Muṭṭalib, who was the paternal grandfather of the Holy Prophetsaw, was from this family. After a stay of more than ten days in 2

Qubā’, on Friday, the Holy Prophetsaw set out for the heart of the city. A large party from among the Anṣār and Muhājirīn accompanied the Holy Prophetsaw. The Holy Prophetsaw was riding a camel, and Ḥazrat Abū Bakrra was behind him. Slowly but surely, this caravan slowly began to advance towards the city. The time for Friday prayers arrived en-route. The Holy Prophet

saw

stopped in the neighbourhood of

the Banū Sālim bin ‘Auf. He delivered a sermon to his Companions, and led the Friday Prayer. Historians write that, although the Friday Prayer had already

begun3, this was the first prayer service which the Holy Prophetsaw led himself4. After this, the Friday Prayer service formally began. In actuality, Friday is an ‘Īd for the Ṣalāt, just as ‘Īdul-Fiṭr is the ‘Īd for the fasting of Ramaḍān5, and ‘Īdul-Aḍḥā is the ‘Īd for Ḥajj. It is for this reason that the Friday Prayer has been given great significance in the Islāmic Sharī‘at6. In this service, the Imām delivers a sermon in which matters of current relevance are discussed. The congregation is exhorted with regards to faith and good deeds, and after this, two Rak‘āt7 of obligatory prayer are offered. The Holy Prophetsaw would also instruct that on Friday, every Muslim should, as much as possible: bathe, wear clean clothes, use fragrance, and reach the mosque before the sermon begins. In remembrance, a mosque named MasjidulJumu‘ah has now been built at the place where the Holy Prophetsaw led this first Friday Prayer service. After completing the Friday Prayers, the caravan of the Holy Prophetsaw continued to slowly proceed further. When the Holy Prophetsaw would pass by the homes of Muslims, in the fervour of their love they would move forward and say, “O Messenger of Allāh! This is our home. Our wealth and lives are at your behest. We also possess means of protection. Please stay with us.” The Holy Prophetsaw would supplicate for their prosperity and slowly moved towards the city. In the fervour of their happiness, the Muslim ladies and girls climbed the roofs of their homes and began singing:

Maryam

‫ﻴَّﺎ ِت اﻟ َْﻮدَا ِع‬3ِ َ‫ْﻨَﺎ ِﻣ ْﻦ ﺛ‬0َ‫َﻠ‬1‫َﻃﻠ ََﻊ اﻟَﺒ ْﺪ ُر‬

divinely inspired.” In other words, wherever Allāh

‫ دَا ِع‬Cِ D ‫ٰ ﻟِﻠ‬Fَ‫ْﻨَﺎ َﻣﺎ د‬0َ‫َﻠ‬1‫ﺐ اﻟ ُّﺸﮑ ُْﺮ‬ َ َ ‫وﺟ‬

so desired it would sit down itself; and upon saying

"!!

this, the Holy Prophetsaw also released its reins. The

“Today, the full moon has risen upon us from the

camel gracefully advanced and sat down when

valleys of Mount Wadā‘ ; For this reason, gratitude

it reached the place where, later, the Masjid-e-

to Allāh has become forever obligatory upon us.9”

Nabawī, and living quarters of the Holy Prophetsaw,

were built. At the time, this was an uncultivated The Muslim children ran about in the streets and

plot of land, which was the property of two children

alleys of Madīnah singing, “Muḥammad

has

from Madīnah. Immediately, however, it stood up

arrived. The Messenger of Allāh has arrived.” To

and began to move forward; but after a few steps,

express their happiness upon the arrival of the

it once again returned to its initial place of resting,

Holy Prophetsaw, the Abyssinian slaves of Madīnah

and sat down. The Holy Prophetsaw stated:

saw

ْ ُ ّٓ ٓ ٓ ٓ ْ َ ُ <,PÖ," ‫ل‬%ِ '‫ اﳌ‬-‫ﺬا ِان ﺷﺎء ا‬4ٰ , ]^,3,K+,I),H “It seems as"ifà!the , Will of Allāh desires that this be / , , ) -, E , O +), 5 , 6,&D,PÜ,RO\,á,B, our place of residence. ” entered the city, every

would move about demonstrating their feats of swordsmanship. When the Holy Prophetsaw

individual desired that the Holy Prophetsaw stay with him. Each and every person would advance to offer

After this, the Holy Prophetsaw supplicated to Allāh

his services. The Holy Prophetsaw would respond

and dismounted from his camel. Then the Holy

lovingly to everyone, and move forward until his

Prophetsaw inquired as to whose home was closest

she-camel reached the neighbourhood of the Banū

from that place. Abū Ayyūb Anṣārīra rushed forward

Najjār. At this place, the people of Banū Najjār stood

and said, “O Messenger of Allāh! It is mine, and

in rows, decorated with arms to welcome the Holy

this is the entrance to my home. You are most

Prophetsaw. The girls of this tribe were reciting the

welcome.” The Holy Prophetsaw said, “Alright, then

following couplet whilst beating their drums:

go and prepare a place for me to stay11.”

‫َﳓ ْ ُﻦ َﺟ َﻮا ٍر ِﻣ ْﻦ ﺑَ ِﲎ َ ّ ﳒ َﺎ ِر ﻳَﺎ َﺣﺒ َّ َﺬا ُ ﳏ َ َّﻤﺪاً ِﻣ ْﻦ َ ﺟﺎ ِر‬

(The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophetssaw), Vol.2, p.8-11)

“We are girls of the Banū Najjār; How fortunate are we that Muhammadsaw, the Messenger of Allāh, has come to stay in our neighbourhood.” When the Holy Prophetsaw reached the Banū Najjār, the question once again posed itself as to which person the Holy Prophetsaw would stay with. Every individual of the tribe was desirous that he be the one to receive this honour. As a matter of fact, in the fervour of their love, some would even take hold of the reins of the camel belonging to the Holy Prophetsaw. Upon seeing this, the Holy Prophetsaw said, “Leave my camel, for at this time, it has been

Maryam

Residence at the Home of Abu Ayyubra Abu Ayyūb Anṣārīra immediately prepared his home and returned. Then Holy Prophetsaw proceeded inside along with him. This was a two-story home. Abū Ayyūbra desired that the Holy Prophetsaw stay on the top floor. However, taking into consideration the ease of those people who would come to visit, the Holy Prophetsaw preferred the ground-floor and resided there. At nightfall, Abū Ayyūbra and his wife could not sleep all night in the thought that

the Holy Prophetsaw was beneath them, and they

to the Holy Prophetsaw, and said, “O Messenger of

were above him. In addition to this, it so happened

Allāh! I present Anas in your service. Kindly pray

that during the night a pale of water broke on the

for him and accept him so that he may serve you.”

roof. In his fear, Abū Ayyūbra quickly placed his quilt

The Holy Prophetsaw supplicated for his prosperity,

over the water to dry it, in order to prevent even

and accepted him in his service. After this, Anas bin

a single droplet of water from seeping through

Mālikra began to live in service of the Holy Prophetsaw,

to the ground floor. In the morning, he presented

and did not depart from this service until the demise

himself before the Holy Prophetsaw, and implored

of the Holy Prophetsaw. This is the same Anasra on

the Holy Prophetsaw to stay on the top floor. At first,

whose authority many narrations have been related

the Holy Prophetsaw hesitated, but upon witnessing

in the books of Aḥādīth. He was from among the

the insistence of Abū Ayyūb , he agreed. The Holy

distinct Companions of the Holy Prophetsaw. Anasra

Prophetsaw stayed in this home for seven months,

was blessed with a long life and passed away in 91

or according to Ibni Isḥāq, he remained here until

A.H., or 93 A.H., at Baṣrah, when there was perhaps

the month of Ṣafar12 2 A.H. In other words, the Holy

only one or two other Companions alive at the time.

Prophet

remained here until the construction of

In his last days, he would often say that, “Due to

Masjid-e-Nabawī, and the adjacent living-quarters

the prayer of the Holy Prophetsaw, my wealth and

of the Holy Prophetsaw. Abū Ayyūbra would present

progeny were blessed more than I could imagine.

food to the Holy Prophetsaw, and then, whatever

Now I am only waiting for his prayer regarding

would remain of it, he would eat himself. Due to his

paradise to be fulfilled in my favour.” Shortly after

love and sincerity, he would eat from where the Holy

reaching Madīnah, the Holy Prophetsaw sent Zaid

Prophetsaw had taken his food13. Other Companions

bin Ḥārithahra to Makkah with some money. In a few

would also present food to the Holy Prophetsaw. As

days, he returned safely to Madīnah with the family

such, among these people the name of Sa‘d bin

of the Holy Prophetsaw, and his own. Along with him,

‘Ubādahra, chieftain of the Khazraj tribe, has been

‘Abdullāh bin Abī Bakr also brought the family of

mentioned particularly in history. Anas bin Mālik

Ḥazrat Abū Bakrra to Madīnah as well.

saw

was a ten year old orphan of Madīnah. His mother,

(The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophetssaw),

Ummi Salamah, who was very sincere, brought him

Vol.2, p.11-12)

REFERENCES 1

Ṣaḥīḥu Muslim, Kitābuz-Zuhdi War-Raqā’iq, Bābu Fī Ḥadīthil-Hijrah, Ḥadīth No. 7522

Ṣaḥīḥul-Bukhārī, Kitābu Manāqibil-Anṣār, Bābu Hijratin-Nabiyyisa Wa Aṣḥābihī Ilal-Madīnah,Ḥadīth No. 3906

Sunanu Abī Dāwūd, Kitābul-Jumu‘ati, Bābul-Jumu‘ati Fil-Qura, Ḥadīth No. 1069

As-Sīratun-Nabawiyyah, By Abū Muḥammad ‘Abdul-Mālik bin Hishām, p. 349, Hijratur-Rasūlisa

Khurūjuhū Min Qubā’ Wa Safaruhu Ilal-Madīnah, Dārul-Kutubil-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001) 5

The ninth month of the Islamic Calendar [Publishers]

Religious Law [Publishers]

The plural of Rak‘at, which is a single cycle or unit in prayer [Publishers]

Wadā‘ is the name of a mount or in light of various narrations, the name of various mounts.

Sharḥul-‘Allāmatiz-Zarqānī ‘Alal-Mawāhibil-Ladunniyyah, By Allāmah Shihābuddīn Al-Qusṭalānī, Volume 2, p. 165, Khātimatu Fī Waqā’i‘i Mutafarriqatin Ḥaṣalat

Fil-Hijrati....., Dārul-Kutubil-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (1996) 10

Ṣaḥīḥul-Bukhārī, Kitābu Manāqibil-Anṣār, Bābu Hijratin-Nabiyyisa Wa Aṣḥābihī Ilal-Madīnah, Ḥadīth No. 3906 – Note: Bukhārī has not mentioned the account of

the camel in such detail. However, it has mentioned that the camel sat down by itself where the mosque was later built, upon which the Holy Prophetsaw stated, ‘This is our residence.’ The remaining details are derived from books of Sīrat. 11

* Ṣaḥīḥu Muslim * As-Sīratun-Nabawiyyah, By Abū Muḥammad ‘Abdul-Mālik bin Hishām, Dārul-Kutubil-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001)

* Al-Bidāyatu Wan-Nihāyath, By Abul-Fidā’ Ḥāfiẓ Ibnu Kathīr Ad-Dimashqī, Volume 3, p. 210, Sanatu 1 Hijri, Faṣlun Fī Dukhūlihī ‘Alaihis Salāmul-Madīnata Wa Ainastaqarra….., Dārul-Kutubil - ‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001) [Publishers] 12

The second month of the Islamic Calendar [Publishers]

* Ṣaḥīḥu Muslim, Kitābul-Ashribah, Bābu Ibāḥati Aklith-Thaum….., Ḥadīth No. 5358 * As-Sīratun-Nabawiyyah, By Abū Muḥammad ‘Abdul Mālik bin Hishām, p.

352, Hijratur-Rasūlisa Manziluhū Min Baiti Abī Ayyūb, Dārul-Kutubil-‘Ilmiyyah, Beirut, Lebanon, First Edition (2001)

Maryam

��﷽ ��﷽ ‫کے کع‬ ‫تعالیرحم‬ ‫ہللا‬ ‫ساتھاور رحم کع ساتھ‬ ‫فضل‬ ‫تعالی کے ہللا‬ ٰ ٰ ‫فضل اور‬ ‫ھوالناصر‬

‫ھوالناصر‬

ra, A great hostess. Hazrat Amman Hazrat Amman , A great hostess. Hazrat Amman Hazrat Amman JaanraJaan ra’s hospitality towards the guests the Promised ’s hospitality towards the guests of theofPromised JaanraJaan as andasthe andbeginning the beginning of Langar Khana Messiah of Langar Khana from from Messiah ra’s Kitchen. Hazrat Amman ’s Kitchen. Hazrat Amman JaanraJaan By Zanubia By Zanubia Ahmed Ahmed as was the gladbytidings by God Almighty manyfrom people from all over The Promised was given thegiven glad tidings God Almighty that manythat people all over The Promised MessiahasMessiah as comeand to see visitthe andPromised see the Promised one. It was revealed to the Promised by the worldthe willworld comewill to visit one. It was revealed to the Promised MessiahasMessiah by God Almighty thatisthe day iswhen coming the of number visitors will and multiply God Almighty that the day coming thewhen number visitorsofwill multiply they and will they comewill come verylands. distant The revelation was; from veryfrom distant Thelands. revelation was;

‫ق‬ ّ ِ ‫َو‬ ِّ ‫ک‬ َ ‫س ْع َمکَا َن َو‬ َ ‫س۔ ْع َیا ْ َتمُ ْوکَا ِن َن ِم‬ ٍّ ‫ک ْن ۔ ُک َیا ْ ِّلت ُ ْوفَ ِ ّنجٍّ ِم َع ْ ِنم ْی ُک‬ ٍّ ‫ق ِّل فَ ّجٍّ َع ِم ْی‬

Translation: Enlarge your house;will people come to you verylands. distant lands. Translation: Enlarge your house; people comewill to you from veryfrom distant as The Promised says that ‘Accordingly I have this prophecy fulfilled [through the The Promised MessiahasMessiah says that ‘Accordingly I have seen thisseen prophecy fulfilled [through the of from visitors] from Peshawer to However, Madras. However, the revelation been repeated, coming ofcoming visitors] Peshawer to Madras. the revelation had beenhad repeated, which is which is 1 1 an indication that the prophecy will beinfulfilled greater and strength andnumbers. greater numbers. It was also an indication that the prophecy will be fulfilled greaterinstrength greater It was also as not to by getmeeting tired by and meeting and receiving such a largeof number of to the Promised not to get tired receiving such a large number revealed revealed to the Promised MessiahasMessiah It was revealed people. Itpeople. was revealed to him: to him:

َ ‫قئ َ ْمہللاِ ّم َنَو ََلالنَّت َ ِْسئ‬ ‫س‬ ‫اس‬ ِ َّ‫اس ْم ِ ّمنَ الن‬ َ ُ ‫َو ََل ت‬ َ ‫ق‬ ُِ ‫ص ِعّ ْر َو ِل َخَل َْل ت‬ ِ ْ َ ‫صہللاِعّ ْرَو َِلَلخ َْلت‬

Translation: You should not be wroth meet Allah’s creatures and notof be tired of Translation: You should not be wroth when youwhen meetyou Allah’s creatures and do not bedo tired meeting largeof number meeting the large the number people.of2 people.2 only Almighty did God Almighty glad to the Promised butblessed he alsohim blessed him Not only Not did God give this give glad this tiding to tiding the Promised MessiahasMessiah but he asalso ra withcapable a fully companion capable companion Hazrat Mo’mineen Ummul Mo’mineen SyedaJehan Nusrat Jehansahiba begum with a fully Hazrat Ummul Syeda Nusrat begum . sahibara. ra ra Hazrat Jaan Amman was fully of this revelation that as of thethe wife of the Promised Hazrat Amman wasJaan fully aware of aware this revelation and knewand thatknew as the wife Promised as as she is this to share this responsibility of receiving and welcoming the guests and providing for she is to share responsibility of receiving and welcoming the guests and providing for Messiah Messiah ra thempossible in every manner. possible And manner. And the world istowitness to how HazratJaan Amman Jaanra Allhumdolillah them in every the world is witness how Hazrat Amman Allhumdolillah withlove a great and affection care of theofguests of the Promised . Guests with a great and love affection took caretook of the guests the Promised MessiahasMessiah . Guestsasused to used to ra ra time ofor thenight day but or night butAmman Hazrat Jaan Amman Jaancomplained never complained but always actually always come anycome time any of the day Hazrat never but actually received with heart an open andalways happily always care of the such a way received them withthem an open andheart happily took caretook of the guests in guests such a in way that theythat they it was own home. Shefelt neither of receiving guests nor bothered by her own felt like itfelt waslike their owntheir home. She neither wearyfelt of weary receiving guests nor bothered by her own tiredness at Jalsa Salana or even if she was not feeling well, she always gave precedence tiredness at Jalsa Salana or even if she was not feeling well, she always gave precedence to their to their comfort and embraced guests a very caring mother. comfort and embraced the gueststhe like a verylike caring mother. ra Mai bibi sahiba was one of servants the lady in servants in the of the Promised for a very Mai bibi sahiba who was who one of the lady the house of house the Promised MessiahraMessiah for a very as as ra time relates that the Promised used to give threetorupees HazratJaan Amman Jaanra long timelong relates that the Promised Messiah Messiah used to give only threeonly rupees Hazratto Amman ra for the household expenditure to afinancial limited state financial statetime at that and HazratJaan Ammn Jaanra for the household expenditure due to a due limited at that and time Hazrat Ammn never complained this isamount is not sufficient to host and entertain suchnumber a large of number of never complained that this that amount not sufficient to host and entertain such a large people. She was always and thankful used to entertain greet guests3 happily.3 people. She was always thankful usedand to entertain and greetand guests happily. ra ra ra Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad said that HazratJaan Amman Jaanratorelated to him that the arrangements of Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad said that Hazrat Amman related him that the arrangements of as Langar [Hospitality} done from Darul{The Masih {Thewhere housethe where the Promised Langar [Hospitality} were all were done all from Darul Masih house Promised Messiah Messiahas lived}. She said thatwas all food wasand cooked sent to guests from Darul in the lived}. She said that all food cooked sent and to guests from Darul Masih butMasih in thebut later dayslater days

Maryam 10

when the number of visitors increased, it was not practically possible to do so, that’s when it was arranged somewhere else. Hazrat Bashir Ahmadra says that he asked Hazrat Amman Jaanra if the Promised Messiahas ever asked her to cook any particular food according to certain diet of any guest? She replied, yes the Promised Messiahas used to ask her sometimes to prepare a certain dish for guests. She also mentioned that it was always the wish of the Promised Messiahas that all guests are provided with the food which they are generally accustomed to eat.4

Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra Kitchen

Hazrat Nawab Mubarka begum sahibara relates that there was a time when even the Langar food was cooked inside Darul Masih. She says that I certainly remember the roti (bread, naan) at the Jalsa being cooked in the courtyard of Darul Masih for many years. She said that then the time came when Allah Ta’ala expanded the Langar with His Blessings and it will keep on expanding Inshallah. Hazrat Masih Maudas had started Langar for his guests with a great affection and was very tending and caring towards all arrangements of Langar. Hazrat Nawab Mubarka Begumra also relates that Hazrat Masih Maudas kept the arrangement and management of the Langar in his own hands all his life, even in his last days.5 Hospitality for the guests at Jalsa Salana or for other guests was done by the Promised Messiahas himself. A proper system of collections of Chanda for Jalsa Salana had not been initiated yet. During those days, once at the occasion of Jalsa Salana, Hazrat Mir Nasir Nawabra sahib [father of Hazrat Amman Jaanra] came to the Promised Messiahas and mentioned that there was no money to prepare dinner for the guests for that night. The Promised Messiahas asked him to ask Hazrat Amman Jaanra to give any of her jewellery and sell it and then to make arrangements. So Mir sahib took the jewellery form Hazrat Amman Jaanra and either sold or mortgaged it and arranged provisions for the guests. What a beautiful incident, neither daughter objected nor the father said anything, it was because both of them had absorbed the beautiful qualities of the Promised Messiahas.6 Hazrat Mirza Sharif Ahmadra relates that in the early years when there were not many guests, the Promised Messiahas used to eat with the guests. The food was laid down toward Masjid Mubarak, near the north side wall and the Promised Messiahas used to sit at the wall side. At that time food for guests was prepared in Darul Masih and was brought outside for guests. He says that once a guest complained of not liking the salan (curry). Upon knowing about this Hazrat Amman Jaanra cooked chana daal (lentils) with her own hands for the guests and it was delicious.7 Hazrat Chawdhary Zafrullah Khan sahibra relating the hospitality and kindness of Hazrat Amman Jaanra towards the visitors says that when he was going abroad for studies he visited Qadian with his parents in 1911 during the Khilafat of Hazrat Khalifatul Masihra I. He narrates that Hazrat Amman Jaanra used to prepare food for them herself and simultaneously took care of other guests with the same kindness and hospitality, and she thought of the guests as the guests of God Almighty. So she used to take care of the guest’s comfort in all aspects and did not hesitate even to lift a charpai (bed) for the comfort of a guest.8

11 Maryam

In Tareekh-e-Lajna Hazrat Choti apa Maryam Siddiqa sahiba (wife of Hazrat Musleh Maudra) while relating about the hospitality of Hazrat Amman Jaanra at the Jalsa Salana, writes that during the early years responsibility of the hospitality arrangements for women were not given to someone in particular and actually Hazrat Amman Jaanra was the real hostess herself. Women of Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra and Promised Messiah’sas family along with some other ladies took care of the guests under Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra supervision. At the occasion of Jalsa Salana, a large number of ladies visited and it was always everyone’s hearty wish that they themselves and their children meet Hazrat Amman Jaanra and to request for prayers. Hazrat Amman Jaanra gave most of her time to the guests during these days and listened to each of them very attentively. Hazrat Amman Jaanra repeatedly advised workers to be mindful of the guest’s comfort and needs. In this respect, a note of Hazrat Sheikh Yaqoob Ali Irfanira sahib is worth mentioning. He writes that I have been told about a most amazing thing, which is that Hazrat Amman Jaanra herself went to Langar Khana to check that all arrangements for the guests were done to her satisfaction and she also asked to prepare a daig (cauldron) of piluao (rice) for the guests at her own expenses. He writes that it is not a question of a cauldron of rice being prepared but the main most important point present here is the virtue of honouring the guests which Hazrat Amman Jaanra had been given as being the wife of the Promised Messiahas. He writes that the chapter of hospitality in Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra life is very vast and contains many great incidents but Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra special attention in this regard is exemplary for all.9 Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra says that hospitality was a very profound quality found in Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Hazrat Amman Jaanra often invited relatives and also others to dine at her house. If anyone visited her and it was time to eat, Hazrat A memorable photo of langar khana of the Promised Messiahas Amman Jaanra insisted that they eat with her. He says that it seems as if hospitality was the food of Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra soul.10 Hazrat Amman Jaanra welcomed and showed kindness and love to children guest as well. One of the relatives of respected Qazi Muhammed Zahoor Uddin sahib , Arshad Qurashi sahib came to Qadian when he was a child he writes that in 1909 at Jalsa Salana he went to see Hazrat Amman Jaan ra in Darul Masih. He writes that he was taken by Hazrat Mir Muhammed Ishaq sahibra (Hazrat Amman Jaan’sra brother) to see Hazrat Amman Jaanra. He writes that we entered a room after crossing a courtyard and there I saw an extremely elegant and respected lady. Mir sahib pointed to me that she was Hazrat Amman Jaanra. He says that I went forward and said Assalam o Alaikum. Hazrat Amman Jaanra put her hand over my hand with kindness then herself went to another room and brought a chair for me to sit down and asked me to sit beside a small table then went inside and brought some biscuits and milk for me which I ate shyly. Arshad Qureshi sahib says that although this was 30-34 years ago, he still had not forgotten and remembered this like a very vivid dream because the effect of meeting Hazrat Amman Jaanra and her hospitality and kindness to a child who was a stranger to her but also was from a rural background left a great impact on his heart and soul. Respected Amatul Qayyum sahiba relates that Hazrat Amman Jaanra did make many sacrifices along with the Promised Messiahas and among them one is that Hazrat Amman Jaanra would prepare food 24 hours for guests, parathay, chai (tea), lassi (yogurt drink), salan (curry), achar (pickle), chutni (sauces), milk etc, anything which was needed for guests at any time. Hazrat Masih Maudas used to

Maryam 12

come inside and ask for it and Hazrat Amman Jaanra made it ready to be taken to the guests. She writes it looked as if there was a lamp of Alla Din because everything was made available immediately according to the needs of the guests. She says that she had observed that preparing food for the guests made Hazrat Amman Jaanra really happy.11 It was witnessed by many that not only Hazrat Amman Jaanra was a great hostess but she also made the guests very comfortable and at ease. Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra relates that his Uncle Hazrat Mir Muhammed Ismailra sahib (Hazrat Amman Jaanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sra brother) was a very intelligent and wise person and he had spent almost 27 years in the company of the Promised Messiahas and he often used to say that I have seen many important people in my life and have spent time in their company but I have never found anyone totally free of pretentiousness but only the Promised Messiahas. Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmadra says that his observation was the same. He says that Hazrat Masih Maudas sat in the midst of all sorts of people as members of one family sit together and as a result Hazrat Masih Maudas sometimes had to sit in a less prominent place while others got a better place to sit. And similar was the case with Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Hazrat Amman Jaanra gave place to guests to sit beside her regardless of their background or whether they were rich or poor and gradually she was seated nearly at the edge of the bed after making space for others. A large number of people visited Hazrat Amman Jaanra and she never showed them any sort of annoyance at all but on the other hand always welcomed them and spoke to them very lovingly and affectionately and always asked them about their wellbeing and if everything was ok.12 Wife of Sheikh Nayaz Mohammed sahib relates that once I went to see Hazrat Amman Jaanra while she was dining and she asked me kindly to join her. She says that keeping in mind the status of Hazrat Amman Jaanra I felt embarrassed and hesitated. Hazrat Amman Jaanra repeatedly asked me to join her but I still refused to eat. Finally Hazrat Amman Jaanra seeing my hesitance, put half of the food from her plate in another plate and offered it to me and said that please have it now. She says that it was a remarkable example of humbleness which Hazrat Amman Jaanra used to show to all of us.13 The very beginning of Langar Khana of the Promised Messiahas was initiated at the hands of Hazrat Amman Jaanra and at the house of the Promised Messiahra and now we see how God Almighty has blessed this Langar. Millions of people all over the world gain blessings from the Langar of the Promised One. May Allah enable us to be thankful for All of His Countless Blessings, Ameen. REFERENCES: Announcement of February 17, 1897, Majmuaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ah Ishtiharat, Vol 2, p.327 2 A revelation of 1906, Tadhkara, p.839 3 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 278 4 Seeratul Mehdi Vol 1, Rawayat No 26 5 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 280 6 Ashab-e-Ahmad,Vol 4, p.108 7 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 279 8 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 280 9 Al-Hakam, 14th of June 1934 10 Seerat-e-Tayyaba, p.84-85 11 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 283-284 12 Seerat o Sawanah Hazrat Amman Jaanra. Professor Naseem Saeed, p. 287 13 Seerat Hazrat Amman Jaanra, Vol 2, Hazrat Sheik Yaqub Ali Irfanira 1

13 Maryam

Motherhood My Experience Experience Motherhood and and My MADIHA MALIK MADIHA MALIK

th OOnnthe was born. born. Within Within the themoment momentI Iheld heldhis his the20 20thOctober October 2016 2016 at at 2:16 2:16 pm pm my my son son was

little before. Most Most mothers motherswhile whilethey theygaze gazeupon upon littlecrying cryingbody bodyIIfelt felt love love like like II had had never never before. their child forever. forever. It‟s It‟s an an instinct. instinct.Yet Yethere hereI I theirnew newborn bornvow vow to to protect protect and and love love their their child knew my child child for for me, me, because becausemy myson sonwas wasHis His knewininmy myheart heart that that Allah Allah would would protect protect my servant. for my my son son as as much much as as II could, could,set setaagood good servant.I Iknew knew my my obligation obligation was was to to pray pray for example and leave leave the the rest rest in in the theAlmighty‟s Almighty‟s exampleand andraise raise him him to to the the best best of of my ability and hands. hands.

SSince inceI I embraced embraced motherhood motherhood myself, myself,

it only seemed seemed fitting fitting to to express express my mydeepest deepest

gratitudetotoall allexisting existing mothers. mothers. II don‟t don‟t believe that gratitude that children children today todaydo doso soenough. enough.Our Our mothers,who whoas asour ourmost most respected respected Khalifa Khalifaaba said said in in aa recent recent Waqf-e-Nau Waqf-e-Nauclass, class,juggle juggle mothers, manyresponsibilities responsibilitiessometimes sometimes through through sickness and many and ill ill health. health. They Theypush pushtheir theirneeds needs awayand andinstead insteadfocus focus on on their their children‟s children‟s needs. The away The fathers, fathers, and and sometimes sometimesmothers mothers too,work workjobs jobstirelessly tirelesslyto to provide provide worldly worldly comfort and too, and ease ease for fortheir theirchildren. children.Thus, Thus,our our parentsdeserve deserve the the best best gift gift from from us, us, which which is parents is prayer prayer in in abundance. abundance. Our Ourprayers prayersfor for them could ease their minds and make their lives easier in ways we would not know, but them could ease their minds and make their lives easier in ways we would not know, but onlyAllah Allahknows. knows.AAwell-known well-known prayer prayer for for parents parents is only is “O “O Allah! Allah! Have Havemercy mercyupon uponthem them as they had mercy upon me when I was small”. While I pray for my son I always as they had mercy upon me when I was small”. While I pray for my son I always remembertotopray prayfor formy myparents parents too. too. It‟s It‟s the the least remember least II can can do do for forthem. them. Furthermore,the theAlmighty Almighty says says in in the the Holy Holy Qur‟an Furthermore, Qur‟an “his “his mother mother bears bearshim himininweakness weakness upon weakness and his weaning takes two years” (31:15). When I read this verse of the upon weakness and his weaning takes two years” (31:15). When I read this verse of the Holy Qur‟an now I understand its true meaning, and I am certain other mothers do too. Holy Qur‟an now I understand its true meaning, and I am certain other mothers do too. From pregnancy to the day your child decides to leave your home, it is a difficult time for From pregnancy to the day your child decides to leave your home, it is a difficult time for a mother, especially the first few years of your child‟s life. This is not meant in a a mother, especially the first few years of your child‟s life. This is not meant in a negative light necessarily. It is difficulty and responsibility which she knew she was negative light necessarily. It is difficulty and responsibility which she knew she was taking upon herself with the decision of having children. My life has completely taking upon herself with the decision of having children. My life has completely changed. My days and nights revolve around my son and keeping him happy, laughing changed. My days and nights revolve around my son and keeping him happy, laughing and satisfied. He is helpless at this age and it is my duty as his mother to get him and satisfied. He is helpless at this age and it is my duty as his mother to get him through this stage. It is not acceptable to have a child and then abandon their needs for through this stage. It is not acceptable to have a child and then abandon their needs for yours. To wish to carry on yours. To wish to carry on

with your life as if this drastic life changing event hasn‟t occurred. A child needs the utmost attention and care, a lot of love, so that he grows up content and in return is a happy positive person in the future. We need children who are positive, and go down a righteous path and serve humanity instead of abandoned neglected children who cause havoc in society to get attention.

Motherhood and My Experience

Some will argue that a mother canMonly much A D Ido H AsoM A L I Kto protect and nourish her child, as

eventually the child comes in contact with its environment, which affects them. Our societies play a crucial role in impacting our children. Sometimes the impact has a negative influence. Children get lost in the deep-rooted need to „fit in‟ and abandon moral conduct. However, I believe if the upbringing at home is good and with prayer and th OAllah‟s n the 20 2016will at 2:16 was born. Within moment I held his help October our children neverpm getmy lostson down the wrong path. the Along the way we are little cryingtobody I felt love likebut I had before.weMost mothers while they upon all bound make mistakes, it isnever important teach our children that gaze we must

their to protect their child forever. It‟s an to instinct. Yet here learnnew fromborn our vow mistakes. Allahand sayslove if you truly repent and uphold never make that I knew in my heart that wouldyou protect child because my son His mistake again then He Allah will forgive and my guide you.for It me, is His forgiveness we was should servant. I knew obligation was to too. prayWe forshould my son as muchoffer as Ivoluntary could, setprayer, a good desire and instilmy this in our children regularly example and for raise him to the best of my and ability leave the to rest in the Almighty‟s pious God-fearing children prayand for ourselves be good parents. give charity hands. Furthermore, most of us will be familiar with the hadith; “Paradise is under the feet of

Smothers” ince I embraced motherhood myself, seemed fitting express my deepest (Sunan Nisaie), and only today,itasonly a mother myself, do Itocomprehend why that

is. It is to these two feet mothers. which she stands on while to today put her to sleep, gratitude all existing I don‟t believe that trying children do baby so enough. Our countlesswho nights spent walking to appease thesaid babies to be rocked. Even though in aneed recent Waqf-e-Nau class, juggle mothers, as our most respected Khalifaaba her child is growing heavier day by day, her feet never tire and her arms never let go. Of many responsibilities sometimes through sickness and ill health. They push their needs course, play a crucial rolechildren‟s in their babies the natural bond between a away andfathers instead focus on their needs. lives The but fathers, and sometimes mothers child andjobs mother surpasses that. worldly Allah has made and heaven Simply too, work tirelessly to provide comfort easeso foreasily their attainable. children. Thus, our treat your mother andwhich love she deserves. Hadith parents deserve thewith bestthe giftrespect from us, is prayer in Another abundance. Ournarrates prayers as for ra saw relates that once a person came to the Holy Prophet followingHazrat Abu Hurairah them could ease their minds and make their lives easier in ways we would not know, but andAllah asked,knows. `O Holy Messenger of Allahfor who is the ismost deserving get nice only A well-known prayer parents “O Allah! Haveperson mercytoupon them treatment from me?‟ He replied, `Your mother.‟ He asked, `Who next?‟ To this, he got the as they had mercy upon me when I was small”. While I pray for my son I always same reply. When he repeated this question for the fourth time, he was told by the Holy remember to pray for my parents too. It‟s the least I can do for them. Prophetsaw, `Your father.‟ I believe this highlights a child‟s responsibilities to their Furthermore, the Almighty says inforce the Holy Qur‟anand “histhey mother bears him in weakness mother. Mothers are the binding in families should be treated like any upon and hisbe;weaning takes two years”Children (31:15). When verse their of the otherweakness leader would with utmost respect. shouldI read avoidthis hurting Holy Qur‟an now I give understand itsand truebemeaning, am certain other something. mothers do too. mother‟s feelings, them time patient ifand theyI don‟t understand From pregnancy to the day your child decides to leave your home, it is a difficult time for To conclude I wish to say to all our girls who are still living with their mothers, treat a mother, especially the first few years of your child‟s life. This is not meant in a them well. To those who are already mothers our best tool for a good, spiritual and pious negative light necessarily. It is difficulty and responsibility which she knew she was upbringing is prayer. To please Allah and to attain His love we have to do what he taking upon herself with the decision of having children. My life has completely commands us; which is to obey and respect our parents, especially our mothers. If we changed. My days and nights revolve around my son and keeping him happy, laughing love our mothers, then will we attain Allah‟s pleasure. Insh‟Allah. and satisfied. He is helpless at this age and it is my duty as his mother to get him through this stage. It is not acceptable to have a child and then abandon their needs for yours. To wish to carry on

Tarbiyyat Page (Extracts from the summary of the Friday Sermon delivered by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah strengthen his hand) on 28th of October 2016 in Toronto, Canada)

It is Incumbent upon the Parents to give their Children the Best Training: “The responsibility of the upbringing of an Ahmadi child lies with the parents, and there is no doubt that the parents will desire the best for their child when it comes to their secular and also their religious education, providing they are inclined towards religion themselves. One should always bear in mind that every child of the Jama’at, and particularly a Waqf-e-Nau child, is a trust that has been committed to the care of the parents by the Jama’at. Therefore it is incumbent upon the parents to give them the best training in order to make them valuable members of the Jama’at and society in general.” Waqf-e-Nau children should not be Apprehensive about how they will Survive in Worldly Matters: No Waqf-e-Nau child should ever have this thought in mind that if they dedicate their life then how will they survive in worldly matters, nor should they allow this apprehension to develop deep down as to how they will manage to financially support their parents or even to support themselves by other means. The Waqifeen-e-Nau should Raise their Levels of Sacrifice: The devotee of life should become the most humble person on earth. Whilst the Waqifeen-e-Nau should raise their levels of sacrifice, at the same time they must raise the level of their worship and also their level of loyalty. They should use all of their abilities and capacities to fulfil their covenant and the oath of their parents. They should endeavour to serve their faith and make every effort for the elevation of their faith. In such a case, God Almighty rewards abundantly and does not leave anyone short of recompense. It will only be Beneficial for the Jama’at when they Fulfil their Pledges with Utmost Loyalty: If every Waqf-e-Nau boy and girl fulfils their pledges with sincerity, then we can bring about a revolution in the world. Many young couples come to see me and [the boy] says that he is Waqf-e-Nau as is his wife and child. Or the mother will say she is Waqf-e-Nau or the father will say he is Waqf-e-Nau and my child is also a Waqf-e-Nau. This is a matter of great repute indeed; however it will only be beneficial for the Jama’at when they fulfil their pledges with the utmost loyalty. Waqfe-Nau Children are very Special: Waqf-e-Nau boys and girls will be considered ‘special’ if they recite the Holy Qur’an on a regular basis, searching for its commandments and then acting upon them. They will be considered ‘special’ if they participate in events organised by the Jama’at or its auxiliary organisations more actively and regularly than others. If they are leading their siblings in the good treatment of parents and in supplicating for them, then this is also a special distinction. They will be deemed ‘special’ if when finding suitors for marriage boys as well as girls give precedence to faith over worldly matters, and by acting on the guidelines of the faith they sustain their relationship. If they Display Humility and a Spirit of Selflessness more than others, they are ‘Special’: They will be considered ‘special’ if they are at the forefront in the obedience to Khilafat and in following its instructions. If they are of resilient character and willing to make sacrifices, then they are definitely ‘special’. If they display humility and a spirit of selflessness more than others, and despise arrogance and strive against it, then, indeed they are ‘special.’ If they listen to my Friday sermons and watch other programmes of mine on MTA to seek guidance continuously, then they are indeed ‘special’. If they act

upon these things and upon all those things that please God Almighty and refrain from what displeases Him and what He has forbidden, then they are certainly special or rather ‘very special’. Otherwise, there is no difference between them and others. Waqifeen-e-Nau Doctors should present themselves and then the Jama’at will send them: There is a need for doctors in virtually every field of expertise in Africa. Currently, the construction of a large hospital in Guatemala is underway, where doctors from Canada could potentially go. There is a need for doctors here [in Canada] and this will increase in the future. Also there is a need for doctors to serve in Indonesia. As the Jama’at grows, this need will keep growing as well. Therefore, those Waqifeene-Nau children who are training to become doctors; after having completed their higher education in their countries and having gained experience after specialising, should come forward and they should be sent to those countries where it is easiest for them to travel. [Or rather] they should present themselves and then the Jama’at will send them. A need for Paramedical Staff and Waqifeen-e-Nau should also Adopt this Profession: For doctors and teachers, both boys and girls can present themselves, therefore give due consideration to these professions. We also need architects and engineers who have specialised in construction, so that they can accurately supervise and plan the construction of our mosques, mission houses, schools, hospitals and other building projects. This will help save the funds of the community and we will be able to provide better facilities with lower cost. Then, we are in need of paramedical staff and Waqifeen-e-Nau should also adopt this profession. All the Students should Aim to Explore Various Fields of Scientific Research: Sometimes Waqifeen-e-Nau have a special aptitude for certain subjects, so when they consult with me I approve that they can pursue further education in their chosen fields. However, for all students I will say this; that they should aim to explore various fields of scientific research. This is a general instruction for all students and Waqifeen-e-Nau alike. If we produce the best scientists in various fields, then the world will not only turn to Ahmadis to seek religious knowledge, but Ahmadis will also be in the forefront of secular knowledge and the world will be dependent upon them to attain that knowledge. Based on this principle, indeed Waqifeen-e-Nau can work for worldly organisations, but the purpose of them gaining that knowledge and skill should be to prove the Unity of God and to spread the true teachings of the faith throughout the world. Waqifeen-e-Nau must Remember that they have Dedicated their Lives for the Service of their Religion: Waqifeen-e-Nau can choose to pursue other careers; however they must bear in mind the fundamental objective that they have dedicated their lives for the service of their religion. Therefore, if they are summoned at point in time they will give up their worldly commitments to commence their service for their faith and this should take place instantly without any excuses or delays. Waqifeen-e-Nau should study the Commentary of the Holy Qur’an and Books of the Promised Messiahas: It is absolutely mandatory for every Waqifeen-e-Nau to study the commentary of the Holy Qur’an and the books of the Promised Messiahas. The Waqf-e-Nau department has designed a syllabus until the age of 21; and that is available for you. On top of this it is essential that you make every effort to further deepen and widen your religious knowledge. Parents will have to become Physical Examples of Excellent Morals: Parents have to be a role model for their children in the way they offer Salat, and will have to set the highest practical examples of how to learn and teach the Holy Qur’an. Parents will have to become the physical examples of excellent morals. Parents will have to make a concerted effort to gain religious knowledge. Parents will have to clearly demonstrate with their examples that they are repulsed by falsehood. They will have to strictly refrain from saying anything derogatory about the administration and the office-bearers of the community. Even if they have been hurt by an office-bearer, the practice of speaking against the administration or any office-bearer must be shunned. Parents will have to demonstrate that they regularly listen to the MTA, at the minimum to all my sermons.

Kids Spread Eid-ul-Adha

1 2 3

When Hazrat Abrahamas narrated his dream to Hazrat Ismaelas how did he respond?

Which incident took place when Hazrat Abrahamas laid his son at the altar for sacrifice?

How do Muslims commemorate the sacrifice of Hazrat Abrahamas and Hazrat Ismaelas?

What was the name of Hazrat Ismael’sas parents? Father : Hazrat Abrahamas Mother: Hazrat Hajra

What did Hazrat Abrahamas see in his dream regarding his son?

Hazrat Abrahamas saw in his dream that he was slaughtering his son Hazrat Ismaelas.

Hazrat Ismael responded to his father by saying ‘O my father, do as thou art commanded; thou wilt find me, if Allah pleases, steadfast in my faith.’

An angel bought the message of Allah said “O Abraham. Thou hast, indeed fulfilled the dream.’ Thus, indeed, do we reward those who do good.” Instead God commanded him to sacrifice a ram in way of God.

During the Hajj on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha Muslims sacrifice an animal in remembrance of this holy sacrifice in which they were ever ready to sacrifice themselves in the way of God.

Fill in the Blanks Eid-ul-Adha is the ____________ Muslim festival that comes approximately ____ weeks after Eid-ul-Fitr. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet ____________ (as) and ____________ (as) to the will of Allah. And it also marks the end of the Muslim pilgrimage of _______ . Hazrat Ibrahim (as) had a series of dreams in which he saw himself sacrificing his eldest son Ismael (as). Thus he desired to fulfil this commandment of Allah for which his son was fully prepared. However, Allah the almighty was so pleased with Abraham (as) at his ____________ that he stopped him and commanded him to sacrifice a _______ instead. Therefore every year at the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha Muslims who have the means to sacrifice an animal in the way of Allah.

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Eid-ul-Adha is the second Muslim festival that comes approximately ten weeks after Eid-ul-Fitr. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet Abraham (as) and Ismael (as) to the will of Allah. And it also marks the end of the Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj. Hazrat Ibrahim (as) had a series of dreams in which he saw himself sacrificing his eldest son Ismael (as). Thus he desired to fulfil this commandment of Allah for which is son was fully prepared. However, Allah the almighty was so pleased with Abraham (as) at his obedience that he stopped him and commanded him to sacrifice a ram instead. Therefore every year at the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha Muslims who have the means to sacrifice an animal in the way of Allah.

Word Search

Sacrifice

Ismael

Marwa

Ram

Zamzam

Eid

Abraham

Safa

Haira

https://www.alislam.org/library/book/salat/eid-ul-fitr-and-eid-ul-adha-festivals/ https://www.alislam.org/eid/

19 Maryam





َ َ ‫ﱠُ ﱠ‬ ‫َ ﱠ‬ َ َ َ ‫ ِﻠ َﻤ ٍﺔ ﻃ ِّﯿ َﺒ ٍﺔ‬‫ ِﺸ ِ ّﻖ ﺗ ْﻤ َﺮ ٍۃ۔ ﻓ َﻤ ْﻦ ﻟ ْﻢ َﯾ ِﺠ ْﺪ ﻓ ِﺒ‬ِ ‫ﻮاﻟﻨ َﺎر َو ﻟ ْﻮ‬ ‫ِاﺗﻘ‬ Ittaqun-naara walau bishikkitamratin. fa-mallam ya-jid fa-bi-kalima-tin tayyiba-tin Save yourself from the Fire, even if it is by offering a fragment of a date (as Sadaqah),and for the one who does not even have that much, by saying a kind word. (Bukhari-Kitab-ul-Adab) Commentary: There are several ways of spending one’s wealth in the cause of Allah. Sadaqah is one such way. This Hadith signifies that even a minor quantity of Sadaqah may save its donor from the hardships of this world as well as from the Hell in the Hereafter. Let it be clear that Sadaqah means helping the needy voluntarily, to win Allah’s pleasure. It must be given out of one’s lawfully earned wealth and, in no case, should its recipient be put under any obligation or reproach. (Al-Qur’an 2:263, 2:265). In case monetary help is not needed, or one cannot afford to spare money for Sadaqah, a word of goodness, a piece of useful advice or consoling a distressed person, are all acts that can also be called Sadaqah. (Al-Qur’an 2:264, Hadith No.21).

A Little but Sufficient

َْ َُ َ َ َ ‫ﯽ‬ٰ ‫ َو اﻟ‬َ ‫ ِّﻣ ﱠﻤﺎ ﮐ‬ٌ ْ ‫َﻣﺎ ﻗ ﱠﻞ َو ﮐ ٰﻔﯽ ﺧ‬ Ma qalla wa kafaa khairum-mimmaa kathura wa alhaa. A little that suffices one’s need is better than plenty that makes him forgetful (of Allah) (Chehl Ahadith) Commentary: This short Hadith urges us to adopt the virtues of simple life and contentment, and to leave the bad habit of extravagance. If one raises his standard of living and his needs beyond reasonable limits, one is entangled in an endless cycle of excessive spending and pursuit for even more income. In view of the above, one cannot fulfil one’s duties towards Allah, nor can one attend to his wife and children. Another Hadith deals with the same subject: “A simple way of life is part of Faith.” The Holy Qur’an repeatedly urges us not to be extravagant (7:32, 17:28).

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

َْ ٌ ‫َْ َ ُ ُ ﱠ‬ ْ ‫ﻞ م ِﺑﺎ ﳌﻨ ِﻄ ِﻖ‬‫اﻟﺒﻶ ء ﻣﻮ‬ Al-balaa'u mu-akkalum-bil-mantiqi Speaking (without thinking) leads to trouble. (Chehl Ahadith) Commentary: One has no control over the good or bad effects of his words once these have been uttered. It is, therefore, advisable to think before speaking. Moreover, brief and gracious speech considerably covers the bad effects due to any shortcomings that maybe present in the speech. Another Hadith on the subject states: ‘Modesty and brevity of speech are two characteristics of faith.’ The Holy Qur'an advises: ‘Speak graciously to the people’ (2:84)



َ َ ْ ُ ‫َ ﱠ‬ َْٓ ْ ‫ﱠ‬ ٖ ‫ ﻗﯿ ِﺌـ‬ِ ‫ﺎاﻟﺮ ِاﺟ ِﻊ‬ ٖ ‫ﺒ ِﺘ‬ِ ِ ‫اﻟﺮ ِاﺟﻊ‬ Ar-raaji`u fee hibati-hee kar-raaji`i fee qai'ee-hee The man who takes back his gift is like the one who licks his own vomit (Muslim) Commentary: Exchanging gifts is a means of enhancing mutual affection. An attempt to withdraw a gift, once it is given, shows extreme narrow-mindedness and miserliness. Thus, love may turn into hatred. That is why the Holy Qur'an prohibits such an actions (57:25). In another place, The Holy Qur’an (4:21) advises not to take back even a valuable asset that had been given to one’s former wife.

Source: https://www.alislam.org/library/books/BasicsReligiousEducation.pdf

21 Maryam

In this era, we Ahmadi Muslims are extremely fortunate to be led by the blessed institution of Khilafat. In order to guide the members of the Jama’at, Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah be his Helper) regularly travels to different parts of the world to meet and guide the local Ahmadis. Certainly, the bond of love between the Khalifa and an Ahmadi is truly unique. During his tours, Huzuraba also spreads the message of Islam through various lectures, meetings and interviews. Dear readers, we hereby present some inspiring and emotional personal reflections and experiences with Khilafat pertaining to some of Huzur'saba tours. These incidents and narrations have been taken from the diaries written by respected Abid Khan sahib, who has had the honour of travelling with Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah be his Helper) on various occasions.

Huzur-e-Anwar’s (May Allah be his Helper) guidance for Jalsa Salana ‘‘Huzur(May Allah be his Helper) is directly

involved in the arrangements and preparation for Jalsa Salana from the very outset. I spoke with the Officer Jalsa Salana, Mohammad Nasser Khan sahib, who elaborated on this. He explained that no major decision pertaining to Jalsa Salana UK was ever made without the prayers, guidance and approval of Khalifatul Masihaba. Nasser Khan sahib said: “First of all, it is Huzuraba who personally approves the administrative committee charged with organising the Jalsa Salana. Thereafter, Huzuraba kindly meets me and other members of the committee regularly in Mulaqat and answers our questions and guides us in the right direction.” [Jalsa UK Diary 2016 part 1 by Abid Khan]

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Huzur’saba love for the guests and participants at the Jalsa Salana Explaining Huzur’saba love for the participants of Jalsa Salana, Nasser sahib said: “I have always seen how Huzuraba particularly keeps in mind the comfort and ease of the participants of Jalsa – hence last year during Mulaqat he advised us to make the flooring in the main marquees more comfortable, as many guests sit on the floor for hours on end. Based on this instruction we were able to source a special underlay that made the flooring much softer and comfortable for people to sit on.” Nasser sahib continued: “Furthermore, the sermon Huzuraba delivers the week before Jalsa is extremely valuable for us because normally Huzuraba gives special guidance for the workers and volunteers at Jalsa and highlights certain aspects that we should pay particular attention to.” Nasser sahib told me how Huzuraba was particularly mindful of how guests were

treated at Jalsa Salana. He mentioned an incident from the 2015 Jalsa Salana, when the Ashanti King, who is extremely revered amongst his people, had travelled from Ghana to attend. Nasser sahib told me that whilst the King wished to address the Jalsa, his personal protocol was such that he was unwilling to remove his sandals at the stage area. This was a problem because the stage area was also used for Salat and so all people who went on the stage removed their shoes. Explaining how this issue was resolved, Nasser sahib said: “Our idea, which we proposed to Huzuraba, was to set up a microphone on the floor, next to the stage, so that the Ashanti King could address the Jalsa and keep his shoes on without having to come on the stage. However, when we informed Huzuraba about this he was not satisfied.” Naseer sahib continued: “Huzuraba did not wish for us to offend the King in any way and so he instructed that a secondary carpet should be laid temporarily on the stage leading from the stairs to the lectern. The King could walk upon this carpet with his shoes and after his speech it could be removed. Huzur’saba words were filled with such wisdom, wherein the purity of the Salat area was maintained, whilst at the same time the protocol of the King was observed and no offence was caused.” [Jalsa UK Diary 2016 part 1 by Abid Khan]

A Lady who had waited 58 years to see the Spiritual Representative of Hazrat Masih Maudas “I met a lady called Fauzia Mansoor who was 58 and had come from Rabwah Pakistan. In her entire life she had never met any Khalifa until that day. Speaking of her Mulaqat, which had taken place moments earlier, Fauzia sahiba said: “I have waited 58 years to see the spiritual representative of Hazrat Masih-e-Maudas and finally that day has come. Before

entering Huzur’saba office I was sure that my tongue would be tied and I would be unable to speak a word in his presence. However, Huzuraba was so kind and loving that I felt at ease and Alhamdolillah I was able to request his prayers. In Huzur’saba office all you feel is peace and love.” Fauzia sahiba continued: “I am now looking forward to the Jalsa because I have seen on MTA how Hadeeqatul Mahdi is a farmland but somehow the Jama’at turns that jungle into a city for the Jalsa period! It has been my desire to see this sight for many years.” [Jalsa UK Diary 2016 part 1 by Abid Khan]

An Ahmadi lady’s desire to have a direct link and bond with the Blessing of Khilafat “One lady I met was Tehmeena Fasi from Los Angeles East Jama’at, who had come to attend the Jalsa with her husband and young children. Tehmeena sahiba was very emotional. As she described her desire for her children to have a direct link and bond with Khilafat, Tehmeena sahiba began to cry. As she wiped tears from her eyes, she said: “You people who live here near Huzuraba have no idea how fortunate you are! You have no idea how lucky you are! Please do not ever take this blessing for granted. Your children see Huzuraba daily and pray behind him and Huzuraba knows their names – what greater blessing could you have? Here in London, I see how our Mosques are filled every day but it is not the same everywhere else. It is the greatest possible challenge to do the good Tarbiyyat of our children when you live so far from Khilafat.” [Jalsa UK Diary 2016 part 1 by Abid Khan]

23 Maryam

THE MEDIA VIRUS AGAINST

ISLAM

By Navida Sayed, London, UK

News about virus outbreaks resulting in major global pandemics always raises alarm and concern, Zika being the latest to hit the headlines. The current global IT and digital networks connecting the cyber world are also witnessing the rise of malicious software and internet security threats. Other than biological and technical viruses, which most people are aware of, something else is lurking around. The latest newly emerging uncontained virus, without immunity or a cure in sight is highly contagious and rapidly spiralling out of control, contaminating vast parts of the population around the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the media virus against Islam. In the recent months, the world has witnessed a wave of atrocious, barbaric, terrorist attacks carried out wrongly in the name of Islam. Leading media outlets are cognisant of the fact that terrorists have nothing to do with Islam, yet their skewed negative media coverage against Islam acts as a powerful catalyst in promoting fear and feuds. The degree of antagonism and hatred against Muslims, as a result of bad press, has arguably reached new heights and peak negativity. During any catastrophic incident, facts are often obscured by perceptions, but the assumptions and connections with Islam are distorted and blown out of proportion. The

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words Islamism, Islamists, and Islamic terrorism, instantly diffuse via media outlets sparking anger, grief, fear, anxiety and hatred. These terms are innovations of the mass media and not mentioned anywhere in the Qurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;an. The religion is Islam, and the followers are Muslims. The impact of the media virus against Islam is affecting people from all walks of life to the extent where individuals instantly react without a pause for thought. Social media such as Twitter and Facebook is laden with hundreds of concoctions of racist, abusive, derogatory comments against Islam. The negative and offensive comments are shared across the board by enraged individuals who believe they have mastered the teachings of Islam; clearly and evidently they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know the first thing about Islam, and they are driven purely by negative media content about Islam. The media virus feeds off the extremists by giving them the platform they are pining for; at the same time in the rat race to sell their story, the media create chaos and panic in society often resulting in knee jerk reactions by many individuals. The most detrimental impact of the media virus has affected the most vulnerable people in society, and the world is witness to the fact that nearly all of the terrorist attacks committed in recent

times were by individuals who hardly practiced Islam. The perpetrators of the attacks were persons going through some life crisis and angered by their situation, by individuals under the influence of drugs and alcohol or by people with a history of mental illness.

and immunity to contain it quickly so that the media world can focus on dealing with the real deadly threat of extremism in the world. The best way to defeat extremism is to stand united against it. The worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper), said:

Sensationalism in journalism has always existed, but the irony is that now almost every media outlet reporter thinks he or she is an expert on Islam, featuring “The early Muslims were only ever sensationalistic headlines and permitted to raise their swords in a articles randomly citing defensive war when the cherry-picked verses or opponents themselves writing about topics physically raised their swords without any knowledge in an effort to eliminate The degree of antagonism or insight. Such reporters Islam. However, in this era and hatred against Muslims, are not an authority on religious wars are not being as a result of bad press, Islam but claim physically fought against has arguably reached new undisputedly accurate Islam but rather the media is heights and peak negativity. opinions about the faith. being used to attack Islam They recklessly report and to misrepresent it. Thus, inaccurate facts and are we must ourselves use the responsible for inciting and media to counter these attacks instigating hate crimes, only to and inform the world of the true attract readers and increase sales. teachings of Islam.” The way to defeat the so-called Jihadists is not to fall prey to their motives for creating disorder and chaos in the world which is what we are witnessing as a story in the media is picked up by multiple sources, and the hatred amplifies across the board. The media virus propaganda and sensationalised negative accounts about Islam presented as truth and breaking news will damage society by creating great divisions and barriers. Journalists need to take responsibility in combating extremism, not add fuel to the fire and cause unrest in society. They should be unbiased in an attempt to bring about incremental positive change to make the world a better place. Journalists and reporters have a duty towards the information they present to the public bearing their well being in mind. Both biological viruses and cyber attacks on a global or minute scale are dealt with extreme efficiency and speed. Likewise, the media virus against Islam is also in need of a cure

Regardless of the surge of hatred against Islam, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community continues with its efforts to promote peace and counter extremism. Recently it held its 50th Annual Convention (the Jalsa Salana) – an annual international conference of a community, which encourages interfaith dialogue, advocates peace, tolerance, love and understanding among followers of different faiths. Our community firmly believes in and acts upon the Qur’anic teaching: “There is no compulsion in religion.” (2:257) We firmly reject violence and terrorism. More than 38,000 from 107 countries attended the three-day International event in the suburbs of Hampshire. It was not only a platform against extremism based on a jihad of love and not a jihad of the sword, but also a deeply spiritual and inspirational experience in an atmosphere, which radiated the tranquility of love and message of peace. Therein lies a cure for many ills of today.

25 Maryam

Lajna Imaillah UK Hosts First Press & Media Workshop A report by Manaal Rehman By the Grace of Allah on Saturday 22nd of April, 2017, I had the opportunity of attending the first ever Press Media Workshop at the Bait-Ul-Wahid Mosque in Feltham. This was hosted by our, very talented and inspirational Lajna UK Press and Media team and was attended by Lajna from the South regions in England, including some esteemed members of the National Amila. Upon entering the beautiful mosque, we were greeted by the registration team and were led to the main hall, there we were kindly offered tea, coffee and breakfast. The programme started with an introduction to the media team and an insight into the work that they have carried out until now. The opening speech was given by Mrs Shermeen Butt Sahiba, the serving Press and Media In charge. Out of the many inspirational things that she said, her reference to Hazrat Umme Umarara stayed with me the most. She told us that Hazrat Umme Umarara lived at the time of the Holy Prophetsaw and fought alongside him in battles. She was known to be such a fearless warrior that the Holy Prophetsaw himself stated that ‘everywhere I looked I saw Umme Umara’, defending Islam’. Aunty Shermeen Butt Sahiba then told us that we live in an era in which the Jihad of the pen is prevalent, and we must continue to defend Islam, which is constantly under scrutiny, using our written words. She then emphasised how social media was our platform. She quoted Huzoor’saba address in which he said that Ahmadi Women should be the Umme Umara of this era and should be defending Islam and the Holy Prophetsaw of Islam from all attacks, including those from the media, and we should be informed of the appropriate manners to do this. Furthermore, we should be familiar with the 'social media voice' of Lajna Imaillah which is to spread the true teaching of Islam and Ahmadiyyat, in a polite, courteous and if need be, firm manner. After this, the attendees were split into three groups who alternated between three workshops. The first session that I attended was about using social media, primarily Twitter. To my delight, this too was given by Aunty Shermeen Sahiba, who was better educated in the usage of Twitter than myself. I learnt of several new ways of writing effective tweets, and additional features, such putting a “.” before an @ when replying to a tweet to make your reply public. After being told the do’s and don’ts and being given guidelines about writing tweets, we had a chance to practice writing the ideal tweet and shared some examples. This too was a new concept to me and having mastered the ‘anatomy of an ideal tweet’, it was certainly interesting to see how even with the same concept and keywords everyone was able to write a tweet

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unique to themselves. We were also informed of which official Jama’at accounts to follow, and the appropriate things to re-tweet. Aunty Shermeen Butt Sahiba also informed us of how and when to respond to the news, through 'Letters to the editors'. The second presentation that I attended was about common allegations in today’s world. The session was coordinated and run by Mrs Sarah Waseem Sahiba. The highlight of this workshop was the guided discussion. This was a scenario in which parents had chosen to conceal the gender of their child until the child was school age. We were asked to discuss how we would debate this from an Islamic perspective. We had a thought provoking discussion and some very heated debates. The importance of researching not only the topic at hand, but further researching the media platform and audience to which interviews are to be broadcast was also highlighted to us. We then had the opportunity to select and discuss an issue that we felt was important to discuss. The third presentation was about women in Islam, by Miss Tooba Khokhar Sahiba. In the course of this presentation we were asked to determine connotations of certain words which are presented by the media in terms of Muslim women, such as ‘submission’, ‘oppression’ and ‘feminism’. However, it was the exploration of the word ‘beauty’ in poetry, literature and our own understanding that made me realise the significance of Purdah and modesty in a refreshing new light, as well as a new way to explain to others of its significance in the world today and in Islam. The workshop ended with a report and a question and answer session. A range of questions were discussed regarding social media, from how to best respond to allegations to the differing expectations of a personal versus Jama’at twitter account. We ended with another inspiring address from our Sadr Lajna, Mrs Nasira Rehman Sahiba and silent prayer. To conclude, I would like to encourage all Ahmadi girls to follow the Jama’at's official twitter accounts and learn how to defend Islam in this day and age. Now more than ever, we must be well versed in our beliefs and knowledge so that when the time comes we can reply with accuracy and confidence. If we can see the beauty of Islam, only then can we show it to others. All Ahmadi girls should strive to be the Umme Umara of the Social networking era. And finally, a massive thank-you to the social media team for organising and arranging such a wonderful event.

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FOCU S BOOKS OF THE PROMISED MESSIAHas This section of the magazine aims to provide a brief insight into one of the books of The Promised Messiahas. In this Issue we introduce “Raz-e-Haqiqat”

T I T L E : Raz-e-Haqiqat AU T H O R : Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas L A N G UAG E : Urdu E N G L I S H V E RSION : A Hidden Truth N U M B E R O F PAG E S: 25 Y E A R W R IT T E N : 1898 Y E A R P R IN T E D: 1898 P R I N T E D BY: Diya’ul-Islam Press, Qadian

RAZ-E-HAQIQAT

faith yielding to doubt and religion only skin-

A Hidden Truth is the English title for Raz-e-

deep, he undertook vindication and exposition

Haqiqat (Urdu) written by the Holy Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, The Promised Messiah and Mahdi, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian (on whom be peace) in 1898. The English translation was published in the UK 2016

of Islam. In his vast corpus of writings (including his epoch-making ‘Brahin-e-Ahmadiyya’), his lectures, discourses, religious debates etc., he argued that Islam was a living faith and the only faith by following which man could

by Islam International Publications Ltd.

establish contact with his Creator and enter into

A B O U T T H E AU T H O R

had appointed him the Messiah and Mahdi as

Born in 1835 in Qadian (India), Hazrat Mirza

mentioned in the prophecies of the Bible, the

Ghulam Ahmadas, The Promised Messiah and

Holy Qur’an and Ahadith. In 1889 he began to

Mahdi, remained dedicated to the study of the

accept initiation into his Community which is now

Holy Qur’an and to a life of prayer and devotion.

established in more than two hundred countries.

Finding Islam the target of foul attacks from all

His more than eighty books are written mostly in

directions, the fortunes of Muslims at a low ebb,

Urdu, but some are in Arabic and Persian.

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communion with Him. He announced that God

B ACKG R O U ND AND I N TRODU C T I O N

The book then goes on to narrate the biography

The sworn

the Promised Messiahas says that he is grateful

enemy of the Promised Messiahas, Maulavi Muhammad Hussain Batalvi made a futile attempt to find faults with the Promised Messiahas’s God-gifted knowledge of Arabic and asserted that the use of “Lam” in Ata‘jabu Li amri in one of the Promised Messiahas’s revelations was wrong and, therefore, the Promised Messiahas’s revelation is not a revelation but man-made stuff. The Promised Messiahas surprised his critics by producing five instances of similar uses of “Lam” from the Ahadith thus exposing Maulavi Muhammad Hussain Batalvi’s superficial knowledge of Ahadith (even though he claimed to be the head of the Ahl-e-Hadith). [An Introduction to the Hidden Treasures of Islam, pg.232] At the very outset of the book the Promised Messiahas draws the attention of his followers that the prayer duel with Maulvi Mohammad Hussain was to mature on 15th January 1900, so they should, therefore, be on the lookout for the result of this duel. He admonished the members of the Jama’at to stick to Taqwa (and not to answer the abuses of the opponents with abuses. He told them that truth is always weak in the beginning but it is always destined to gain strength.

of Jesus Christas. In the epilogue of the book to God that it has been proved that the tomb which is in Khanyar, Srinagar and is said to be the tomb of Yuz Asaf, is really the tomb of Jesus Christas; this helped to prove the truth of his claim greatly. [Introducing the Books of the Promised Messiahas]

THE BOOK In this book, the Promised Messiahas gave a detailed account of the life of Jesusas, son of Mary, from the time he was taken off from the Cross alive, and how he was medically treated and a special ointment was prepared to heal his wounds. He followed up this account with the details of the journey taken up by Jesusas from Palestine to Kashmir and leading to his death in Srinagar and a detailed map of the tomb of Jesusas in Muhalla Khanyar on page 68 of the book. Jesusas was a Prophet of God, and the Promised Messiahas, was also a Prophet of God, and he claimed that God had sent him in the guise of all the prophets, especially in the spirit and power of Jesusas, to regenerate mankind. Therefore, he had the peculiar and exclusive advantage of being in a personal and privileged position to understand Jesusas aright. He was the one,

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works. His treatment of the subject is masterly. [An Introduction to the Hidden Treasures of Islam, pg.232-233]

SPECIMENS OF WRITINGS F R O M T HE BO O K ‘A HIDDEN TRUTH’

“Friends! Know for certain that a righteous person is never ruined. When two parties fall to conflict and their disagreement becomes great, support from heaven descends for the one God Almighty sees as righteous and virtuous. In this way religious disputes are settled through heavenly decree.” (A Hidden Truth, P.7)

with him, in spirit and he had in fact met him and conversed with him on several occasions in his waking visions. Whatever he says is indeed based chiefly and primarily on his personal experiences. Hence, he speaks with an authority which cannot be easily questioned or challenged. In the same way, as a Prophet of God, the Promised Messiahas knew the ways in which God deals with His creatures and Chosen Messengers. He lives on a higher plain and gifted as he is with Divine Light within himself,

“By the grace and mercy of God Almighty, in order to humiliate our opponents and establish the truthfulness of this author, it has been proven without a shadow of doubt that the grave of Yuz Asaf, situated in Mohalla Khanyar, Srinagar, is in actuality the grave of Jesus, peace be upon him. The Ointment of Jesus, mentioned in more than a thousand books of medicine constitutes the foremost evidence that the Messiah, peace be upon him, was delivered from crucifixion and did not die on the cross” (A Hidden Truth, Epilogue, P.29)

he throws lights on things which are too deep, being obscured by time, from the reach of ordinary human intellect. Other people seem to grope in the dark, but with the spiritual torch at his disposal, he at once illumines the sacred past and the truth dawns upon him as a seeker after truth as he begins to read His wonderful

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“God, Who is hidden from human eyes but is shining brighter than everything else, and of Whose Majesty even the angels stand in awe, does not like insolence and cunning. He has mercy upon those who fear

Him, so be afraid of Him and utter everything with deliberation. You are His Community whom He has chosen to set an example of goodness. He who does not discard vice, whose lips do not shun falsehood, and whose heart does not exclude impure thoughts, will be cut off from this Community. Servants of God, cleanse your hearts and wash out your insides. You can please everyone with hypocrisy and double-dealing, but thereby you will only earn the wrath of God. Have mercy upon yourselves and safeguard your progeny against Him. Spend yourselves in His way and be devoted to Him and become wholly His if you desire that you should see Him in this very life.” (Raz-e-Haqiqat, p. 4, Ruhani Khaza’in, vol. 14, p. 156)

SA M P L E G LOSSARY C RU C I F IX I O N : Ancient form of execution in which a person was nailed to a cross K H AT M - E - N U B U WWAT: The Seal of Prophethood L A’ N AT: Curse L A’ EEN : Literally means ‘the accursed’ N A B I : Self-annihilation N U R U L L A H : Light of Allah SAYY E B : Prophet. The word Nabi is specific only to two languages and no other language of the

world has employed this usage. That is to say, the word Nabi is used in Hebrew and also in Arabic

“A Hidden Truth” is available to read on www.alislam.org

As a British Muslim Doctor I am Horrified at the thought of Women Banned from Wearing a Hijab to Work

On 14th of March 2017, the European Court of Justice ruled that companies can ban employees from wearing the hijab, but only as part of prohibitions including other religious and political symbols. In response to this, the following letter was published by the Independent by Maleeha Mansur, highlighting the grave injustice in such a ruling. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I find the recent judgement by the European courts to allow companies to ban the wearing of all religious symbols deeply regrettable. As a practising doctor I take great pride and honour in having studied and worked in the NHS observing the hijab. I have been uninhibited in serving my country without any comprise of my faith. I have never faced any opposition in observing my hijab and it has never affected the sensitive patient-doctor relationship. My patients have always seen my hijab as an intriguing part of personal life and by no means a hindrance to my practice and they have been unanimously kind and have expressed appreciation for the treatment I have had the fortune to give them. In fact, whilst my faith motivates me to observe the hijab, it is this very same faith that drives me work on days when junior doctors are striking for example. It is Islam alone that does not let me compromise patient safety for any personal gain. Legal institutions that serve to uphold basic human rights have no place invading the religious freedom that is every human's fundamental right. To legalise such discrimination, where there is no compromise in the work of an employee, is most unjust. Such laws will likely lead to ongoing infringements and divisions in society. Employees should be judged by their merit and abilities, not their religious beliefs.â&#x20AC;?

Maleeha Mansur London SW20

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The Importance of Attending Jalsa Salana UK Nosheen Samreen Mullick (This Essay was awarded First Prize in Jalsa Salana UK 2016) In this essay I will be explaining the importance and benefits of attending Jalsa Salana UK. Jalsa Salana is an annual event, which takes place in various countries around the world. The purpose of Jalsa is to enhance the spiritual wellbeing and knowledge of those attending, enabling them to experience the religious benefits of this event. At the same time, the coming together of various nationalities and people promotes the strengthening of ties between members of the community, in the words of the Promised Messiahas â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a phenomenon that is based purely on the divine help, for the propagation of Islamâ&#x20AC;?. (Ishtihar 7 December 1892, Majmoo`ah Ishtiharat Vol. I, Page 340) Over the course of three days, attendees listen to speeches delivered by speakers from various countries around the world, in addition to a series of faith-inspiring keynote addresses delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba, Head of the Ahmadiyya Community. These speeches cover a range of topics relating to Islam and Ahmadiyyat, as well as speeches discussing other faiths and worldly matters. The highlight of the event for many is the international Initiation ceremony led by the Head of the Community on the third day which allows many to reaffirm their dedication to their faith.

The first Jalsa Salana UK took place in 1966 under the divine guidance of Khalifatul Masih III, Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmadra. Since the head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmadaba resides in this

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country after his migration from Pakistan, the UK Jalsa also serves as the International Jalsa, and guests from all over the world attend. The reason for our beloved Khalifaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;saba migration was because it was difficult for Ahmadis to call themselves Muslims and even say Assalamo Alaikum or the Kalima in Pakistan. Holding a Jalsa was strictly prohibited and therefore it would be difficult for the head of the community to carry out his role as a Khalifatul Masih. From 1985 to 2004, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK used a site near Tiford officially known as Islamabad for Jalsa. However by the Grace of Allah the Jamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;at grew in number and with the rising number of visitors, the community soon outgrew Islamabad. It was then that another site near Alton was purchased, and named as 'Hadiqatul Mahdi' or 'garden of the Mahdi'. The primary purpose of Jalsa is to enable every sincere individual to personally experience religious benefits and that they may enhance their knowledge. It is essential for all those who can afford to undertake the journey that they must attend this convention which embodies many blessed objectives. They should disregard minor inconvenience in the cause of Allah and His prophetsaw. There are many spiritual benefits of attending Jalsa Salana. We are encouraged to listen and act upon what is seen and heard as a source of spiritually adorning one's life. This means taking note of everything said at Jalsa then changing your lifestyle to fulfil that goal. Jalsa is of course truly beneficial when all that is heard is put in practice by members of the Jama'at. Otherwise all the praise extended by the guests will be about something superficial. There needs to be uniformity between the inner and outer self of true believers. Huzooraba has mentioned in sermons that the world has started noticing us. Ahmadis as well as some non-Ahmadis around the world watch Jalsa proceedings on MTA, in particular Jalsa UK is watched in-depth. Therefore Jalsa proceedings should show the true purpose of Jalsa, so that others can be inspired by such pious gatherings. Another benefit of attending Jalsa is that it increases brotherhood between the members of the community and honoured guests. It also promotes mutual introduction amongst all brothers and sisters. Many guests that attend Jalsa comment on the high levels of love and piety that runs through everyone. Some people are so impressed with the atmosphere of Jalsa Salana with each and every pious-natured soul, that some guests take Baâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ait at the hands of the Khalifa by the Grace of Allah.

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Being at Jalsa Salana provides an environment of being in the company of righteous men and women, and therefore one is inspired to improve in his/her personal standard of righteousness. We as Ahmadis have made a pledge to give importance to faith above all worldly matters, and the Jalsa provides the perfect occasion for identifying ways in which to implement this pledge in the best possible ways. We should try and aim to fulfil our obligation to Allah through the remembrance of Allah and also to our fellow mankind. We can do this by being kind to one another on the days of Jalsa and having patience and using the qualities we learn at Jalsa in our daily lives.

One can be easily assured that this is not an ordinary gathering. There are limitless benefits for all participants of Jalsa, be it spiritual or the betterment of brotherhood within the Jamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;at. Members are to utilise this opportunity to renew their personal faith and religion, meet and establish friendships with other members of the community, welcome new members into the fold and remember those who have passed away in the previous year in their prayers. Other benefits of Jalsa that Huzoor has mentioned are; being on duty at Jalsa, listening to the speeches by guests and Huzooraba fountains of knowledge can be gained from the book stalls and the international Baâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ait for everyone. The Baâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ait is especially important as we renew our faith and pledge of allegiance to the true Khilafat of Islam. It should be our aim to not only attend this Jalsa, and if we can hold duties to the best of our ability, but also to truly enhance spiritually and become a better person for the next year, and over time for the years to come. We should encourage our friends and families to enjoy the spiritual benefits of Jalsa and promote such spiritual gathering. References Websites * www.jalsasalana.org * www.mta.tv/jalsaconnect/lessonlearned.org Texts and Books * Majmoo`ah Ishtiharat Vol. I, * Friday Sermon: blessings of Jalsa Salana 2015

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Our Khalifa Our Khalifa, Masih's Successor A Stream of Knowledge

A World of wisdom

A man of Peace

A man who Teaches

Our Khalifa Our Hazoor He comes every Friday

He helps us in every way He is the Man of His words

Our Khalifa Our Soul

He speaks to us

He gives us Guidance An Hour a Week

A new Essence a new Reality

Our Khalifa Our Mentor

He keeps us united, We Love him the Most Sajia Majeed, 9

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